AMPAS slams Ismail Darbar [Thursday, June 9, 2011]
The American Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences which presents the Oscar awards have defended A R Rahman and has slammed the allegation of music composer Ismail Darbar's comments that Rahman has purchased the globally popular award.
"It simply is not possible to buy an Academy Award. While some individuals might disagree with the results of our voting processes, the Academy stands behind the integrity of the voting.", said Leslie Unger, the academy's communication director. Close sources said that the academy might initiate legal proceedings against Ismail Darbar. In his response, Mr Rahman maintained his usual calm and said that India is a free country and everyone is entitled to their opinion in the country.